Self-Watering Pot Failure: Soil Mix Correction for Capillary Action

African violets in self-watering pots stopped absorbing water and wilted.

Root Cause: Wrong Soil Mix

Self-watering pots need light, well-draining soil for capillary action. Heavy peat mixes block water uptake.

Correct Mix

1/3 peat moss + 1/3 perlite + 1/3 vermiculite. Pre-moisten peat 24 hours before mixing. Any commercial violet soil can be lightened with this ratio.

Pot Check

Ensure inner pot is unglazed (no paint/sealant) for water seepage. Verify reservoir contacts inner pot base.